MARIAGE FRÈRES Rouge - Nil rooibos tea

I usually avoid rooibos because it can taste flat, but the citrus and Oriental spice in this one keep it interesting without any caffeine. Steeping it for about five minutes gives a lively cup that's mild enough to drink right before bed.

The marigold warmth really comes through on the finish, which I didn’t expect from a rooibos. It’s become my go-to cup late in the evening, and the citrus keeps it from feeling too heavy.

The citrus note hits first, then the spices soften it into something surprisingly smooth—I’ve been sipping it after dinner and it’s become my winding-down ritual. The marigold edge keeps it from being too sweet, and it’s mild enough for late hours without keeping me up.